Biking with Beanzie annual ride is Sunday

Since 1999, about 6,000 bicyclists have traveled the Biking with Beanzie routes at least one, and many have ridden multiple times. The 15th annual recreational ride is scheduled for Sunday.

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Once again, Biking with Beanzie will partner with Live Healthy DeKalb County to promote a healthy lifestyle. Local food vendors will sell items during and after the rides, and Kishwaukee Hospital is sponsoring the third annual Community/Family Ride.

Biking with Beanzie begins and ends at DeKalb High School, 501 W. Dresser Road in DeKalb. Distance options include routes that are about 25, 46, 62, 80 or 101 miles, for cyclists at all skill levels. The routes travel rural roads in DeKalb, Lee and LaSalle counties, and are mostly flat with some rolling terrain for more experienced riders. Routes are on well-paved, lightly traveled and well-marked roads. There are rest and refreshment stops, as well as SAG wagon and motorcycle support. At the end of the ride, riders will find fruit and drinks available and will have access to the high school’s showers.

The Community/Family Ride also starts at DeKalb High School and has three routes: three, five and eight miles. The three-mile route winds through the grounds of the DeKalb County Rehab & Nursing Center. The five-mile route follows the Kishwaukee Kiwanis Nature Trail through Hopkins Park. The eight-mile route combines the two shorter routes.

The registration for the distance ride is $35. Registration for the Community/Family Ride is $10 for riders 14 through adult. Children 13 and younger can ride the Community/Family Ride free, but must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Riders paying the day of the event must pay by check or cash; no credit cards will be accepted on-site. Bike shop services also will be available at the registration site.

Distance ride check-in and day-of registration are from 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Sunday at the high school. Riders on the 80 and 101-mile routes should be checked in and on the road by 8 a.m.; other distance riders should plan to be riding their route by 10 a.m.

Community/Family Ride check-in and day-of registration are from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m. Sunday at the high school. All riders should be on their route by 11:45 a.m.

All rides end at 3:30 p.m.

Proceeds from Biking with Beanzie bike ride help fund pathway, greenway, and other community service projects throughout DeKalb County. All riders are encouraged to wear safety helmets and other gear and must follow all city, county, and state bicycling laws.

To register or for more information, call 331-442-4166; email bikingwithbeanzie@yahoo.com; or visit www.kishkiwanis.org and use the link to www.active.com ($3.25 surcharge for online registration).